Evolutionary Computation in Behavior Engineering

摘要

. In the last few years we have used ALECSYS, a parallel learning classifier system based on the genetic algorithm, to develop behavioral modules for mobile robots, both simulated and real. In this paper we briefly report on our experience, and then reflect on various concepts stemming from the application of evolutionary computation to agent building. We propose a definition of agent, analyze the relationships holding between an agent and its external environment, and discuss some important similarities and differences between natural and artificial systems; in particular, we compare the concept of fitness of an organism with that of quality of an artifact. We then concentrate on adaptation, regarded as a basic process for the development of both biological organisms and artificial agents. We carry on our analysis trying to understand where and how Behavior Engineering (i.e., the discipline concerned with the development of artificial agents) might profit from the use of evolutionary ...